2 September | Youth
«Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.» Matthew 11:28
After the Covid-19 pandemic, the world became more polarized, intolerant, hybrid; a world in which what we consider real has become increasingly confused with the virtual. People became more isolated, exhausted and depressed. This reality caused South Korean philosopher Byung-Chul Han to define the current global community as “the burnout society.”
For Han, people are increasingly anxious in search of “non-things.” The internet promised greater integration, but individuals are more self-obsessed. Life has become a big game, a competition that never lets up. Narcissism and exhibitionism proliferate on social media, while the other has become an object of consumption.
Still according to Han, cell phones stopped being a utility and became a cult item. It is the new rosary; and the internet, the new temple, where every like is an “amen.” The problem is that in this “temple” there is no break. Everything is accelerated and falls apart easily, as the sole purpose is to stimulate the perceptual field. The internet is the mirror of what our lives have become, and the world has become a reflection of the people.
How can a young Christian live in this context? The apostle Paul responds: “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Rom 12:2). The psalmist also advises: “How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word” (Ps 119:9).
Ellen White, likewise, offers great advice: “Young friends, […] the reason why you are restless is you do not seek to the only true source for happiness. You are ever trying to find out of Christ the enjoyment which is found only in Him. […] The young want just what they have not; namely, religion” (Messages to Young People, p. 383).
It is not a sin to have a social network, much less to have a cell phone. The problem is if these things are imprisoning you. How much time do you spend per day on the internet? What do you enjoy more: watching videos or praying? Review your priorities. God needs to be first in your heart.